Pillars of Eternity Surprise Patch Brings Turn-Based Mode to the Classic RPG
In a move that caught many by surprise, developer Obsidian Entertainment has released a major update for Pillars of Eternity—its 2015 isometric RPG—introducing a fully featured turn-based combat mode as part of the game's 10th anniversary push.
What's New: Turn-Based Mode and Gameplay Flexibility
The headline feature of the patch is the addition of a turn-based combat option. Players can now switch between the original Real-Time with Pause (RTWP) system and the new turn-based mode at any time via the game's settings.
Key enhancements in the turn-based mode include:
Unbound Turns – Turn-order is determined by character speed and modifiers rather than fixed rotational order, meaning faster characters act more often.
Smarter Free Actions – Actions like switching weapons, drinking potions or interacting with items consume fewer resources, making tactical play less bogged down.
Higher Lethality & Faster Pacing – Battles are designed to feel more crisp and dangerous, reducing long grind-fights that dragged in older versions.
The update launched in open beta on November 5, 2025 for PC (Steam) and Xbox on PC, giving players early access to the new mode before a full rollout.
Why This Patch Matters
For many fans of Pillars of Eternity, this patch represents more than just a gameplay tweak—it's a meaningful expansion of choice and accessibility:
Renewed appeal: With the addition of turn-based combat, the game now appeals to more players—those who prefer methodical tactical play as well as those who already loved the RTWP system.
Legacy support: Ten years on from launch, the fact that Obsidian is still actively updating the game underscores its ongoing value and the respect the studio has for its fanbase.
Bridge to newer RPGs: The patch aligns Pillars of Eternity's combat closer to modern tactical RPGs while preserving the classic experience, making it relevant to newer players and smoother to transition into titles like Baldur's Gate 3.
What Players Should Do
If you own Pillars of Eternity and are curious about the update, here's how to approach it:
Back up your save files (always good practice) before entering the beta mode of the new mode, in case you want to revert.
Try a new play-through with turn-based mode if you previously used RTWP—many players will find the pacing and challenge different in interesting ways.
Explore the settings menu to switch modes and experiment—one of the advantages of this patch is flexibility.
For RTWP veterans, test how your favorite builds and companions perform in turn-based mode: you may need to adjust tactics given faster turns and higher lethality.
Limitations and Things to Keep in Mind
The turn-based mode is currently in beta only on PC and Xbox (PC) platforms—console users may have to wait for full support.
Some players may prefer the classic RTWP feel; switching modes may require a learning curve or adjustment if you're used to real-time strategy.
The update focuses on combat mode; other elements like story, expansions, UI may not have changed substantially in this patch.
Final Thoughts
The surprise patch for Pillars of Eternity is a win for both legacy fans and newcomers. By offering a turn-based option alongside the original combat system, Obsidian gives players real choice in how they experience the game. For longtime fans, this means revisiting a beloved RPG with fresh mechanics. For newcomers, it lowers the barrier to entry and makes a decade-old title feel modern and relevant again.
